Best Christmas Markets in the UK to Visit in 2021
December 10, 2021
| 5 minutes read time
What’s Christmas without a traditional Christmas market? It’s right up there with Father Christmas, ugly holiday jumpers and eating ‘til you’re stuffed. Christmas just wouldn’t be the same without a stroll around your local holiday market and we’ve searched high and low to bring you the best Christmas Markets to visit in the UK in 2021. Grab your mittens and your loved ones and get ready to enjoy some mulled wine and mince pies. Christmas markets here we come.
England’s Christmas Markets
19 November 2021 – 3 January 2022
Where better to start things off than in London. We’re thrilled to confirm the capital’s fantastic Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is returning to the delight of Londoners and visitors alike. Located in the heart of the city in Hyde Park, this is an annual tradition for so many with its ferris wheel, shows, stalls, ice rink, food & drink, and so much more. Visitors are encouraged to visit the website and book early to avoid disappointment.
4 November 2021 – 9 January 2022
Birmingham’s Victoria Square is intent on spreading the Christmas cheer this year at its annual Frankfurt Christmas Market, so if you’re in the mood for some Glühwein and Bratwurst, make sure you check their site for any changes before you visit. And if you fancy some ice-skating, book your tickets at Ice Skate Birmingham beforehand.
West Yorkshire Christmas Markets
11 November – Onwards
So much is happening in West Yorkshire, you’d think this was Santa land not Brontë land. From the Winter Village in Millennium Square in Leeds, the Winter Makers Market at Piece Hall in Calderdale, to the Cloth Store in the Brontë Moorlands. With so much to do and in such close proximity to each other, it might be best to grab your bikes and do a tour of everything.
Northern Ireland’s Christmas Markets
20 November 2021 – 23 December 2021
Belfast’s award-winning festive market is back this year and visitors can once again enjoy the vintage helter skelter and treats from all over the world without leaving Belfast. You’ll need to show your Covid passport, proof of vaccination and negative PCR test prior to entry, but it’ll feel like you’re travelling without the horrid airplane food. Check the link for updates.
4, 5, 11 & 12 December 2021
Residents and visitors to the area of Derry City & Strabane can enjoy the local produce while shopping in an outdoor area that is safe and socially distanced. All efforts have been made to support the local traders and keep the community spirit festive and uplifted throughout the season. Visit the link for more info.
Scotland’s Christmas Markets
20 November 2021 – 4 January 2022
Arguably the biggest Christmas market in Scotland, Edinburgh’s Christmas is back this year and it’s promising to be bigger than ever. The six-week market is packed with a variety of stalls, a big wheel, bumper cars, an ice rink and of course, Santa’s Grotto. From 10am to 10pm, adults and kids can roam around and get their festive fill. Visit the link for the latest info and show timings.
18 November – 31 December 2021
Mum, dad, kids, gran and grandad can head over to the Aberdeen Christmas Village where there’s something for everyone. From the Christmas stalls selling food and drinks to the ice rink and fairground, there’s plenty for the whole family to enjoy.
21 November – 23 December 2021
Glaswegians were saddened to hear their beloved George Square Christmas market would be closed for the second year in a row due to Covid. But there’s good news because the St. Enoch Market is going ahead and locals will be happy to find some of their old favourite stalls and entry is completely free regardless of age or numbers!
Wales’ Christmas Markets
11 November – 23 December 2021
There’s something about Cardiff at Christmas, it just feels Christmassy. And when it comes to the Cardiff Christmas Market, no detail has been left to chance this year. Enjoy sipping on your mulled wine as you stroll from stall to stall.
26 November – 21 December 2021
A little bit of old mixed with a little bit of new, that’s what you can expect to see at Swansea. This year, the Swansea Christmas Market is back and everyone’s safety and peace of mind are first and foremost but arts and crafts and delicious street vendors are still available for all to enjoy as always.
3 Tips for When You Visit the Best Christmas Markets
1. Consider cycling to avoid parking chaos
Cycling around the city and to Christmas markets is a great way to spend time with family or get some exercise (before you scarf down all that delicious food!) Since the sun sets by 4:30 nowadays, it’s important to be visible while cycling. Make sure you grab your Curve Bike light and GPS tracker to give you confidence as you ride.
2. Bring the Pups
Some Christmas markets are small enough to walk your dog through. So, if you’re planning on bringing your furry friend for the day’s festivities, make sure you’ve slipped on their Curve Pet tracker pack on their collar in case Rover decides to rove off.
3. Keep a tight hold on your belongings
Crowds are expected everywhere, so stay safe and keep your valuables close to your body. Even better, put your Curve GPS tracker in the bottom of your bag to keep better track of your items in case it’s lost or stolen.
Christmas markets may have originated in Germany in the 1400s but it’s safe to say the tradition and holiday spirit has spread far beyond Germany and reached our shores. Whatever your holiday plans this Christmas, this list proves there’s sure to be a Christmas market within a relatively short distance. If you’re planning to visit a Christmas Market this year to enjoy the local flavours and festivities, please remember to socially distance. Before you head out, don’t forget to visit the links to check for any changes in dates and timings as these can be subject to change with short notice.
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